Many car accidents can be attributed to drinking and driving

On behalf of Patricia M. Jarzobski, P.C. posted in Car Accidents on Thursday, September 8, 2016.

Years ago, a campaign slogan was presented that advised the public to not drink and drive. Not everyone has followed that instruction, as indicated by the number of car accidents that occur as a result of driving after consuming alcohol or some other type of drug. While some car accidents are just fender benders with little or no injury to the affected drivers and passengers, others are bad enough to take the life of a beloved family member. A Colorado woman, a columnist for a popular newspaper publication, was killed in a recent evening accident.

Police reports indicate several witnesses were available to help piece together what happened. The woman was crossing the street when a car drove through the intersection and hit her. The driver had the green light but the woman walked out into the road against her signal. The driver did not stop at the scene but pulled over several blocks away and called the police.

When the police found the driver, they had reason to believe he had been drinking. The results of the tests they administered are not expected to be revealed for several weeks. He was arrested and charged with vehicular homicide and suspicion of driving under the influence.

No matter what happens with the driver's criminal case, the woman's family may choose to file a civil suit for wrongful death. The amount of compensation varies but usually includes burial and funeral costs as well as an amount proportionate to the loss of financial support the deceased would have provided had he or she lived. Anyone who has lost a loved one as a result of one of the many car accidents on Colorado roads will want to speak to a professional who will guide him or her on the correct procedure in filing such a lawsuit.

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